Plants - the basis of life
In a dry region such as Oman, plants are the one of the most valuable things nature can give to people, especially when they can contribute to survival in the hostile environment, as is the case with the date palm. The economic well-being of Oman has been guaranteed for a very long time by the olibanum tree, which grows in the south of Oman and whose resin -- frankincense -- was in ancient times worth its weight in gold.
According to an old tradition, still observed today, a date palm sprig is planted for every newborn son in Oman. Since date palms live about as long as people do they can save their owners from starving, because fifteen dates a day is enough to provide one person with the essential vitamins, minerals and other trace elements required for one day. Statistically speaking, there are four date palms for each inhabitant of Oman.
The date palm has secured the physical well-being of the country for thousands of years; the economic well-being of Oman has been guaranteed for a very long time by another tree: the olibanum tree, which grows in the South of Oman and whose resin - frankincense - was, in ancient times, literally worth its weight in gold.
Georg Popp
What makes this travel guide so special? This book is a product of the long-term personal friendship between the authors, Mr Georg Popp and Mr Juma Al-Maskari and their continuing fascination with the Sultanate of Oman. Combining their insights from European and Omani perspectives, they have produced a guide which is as much about culture and history as it is a practical guide for planning your itinerary.
